Renowned author Min Jin Lee is well-known for her perceptive novels that delve deeply into Korean history and culture. Themes of exclusion and belonging in various cultural contexts are frequently illuminated by her observations. In one of her reflections, she highlights how everyone wants to be seen as successful, especially those who have been marginalized.

As a Korean writer who was born in the United States, Lee uses her experiences to show how people from different backgrounds long to be included in communities or groups that appear prestigious or successful. She stresses that people who feel excluded from important social circles or events have a particularly strong desire for this. She notes, for example, that Koreans have frequently felt left out of some facets of international success and renown.

Lee uses the example of a dinner party where some guests are invited and others are left outside to observe in order to further illustrate her point. Many Koreans, she contends, aspire to join circles that symbolize mainstream success or influence, just as these uninvited guests may yearn to be a part of such gatherings. This desire is a universal human quality that is experienced by people in many communities and countries; it is not specific to Korean culture.

Lee wants to draw attention to the difficulties of belonging and identity in a globalized society through her art. She challenges readers to consider the reasons behind the exclusion of particular groups from alleged hubs of recognition or power, as well as the effects this exclusion has on their goals and sense of self-worth. Her writing frequently builds empathy and understanding among a variety of audiences by bridging cultural gaps.

Lee adds to larger discussions about inclusivity and the value of appreciating the contributions of all members of society, irrespective of their background or nationality, by sharing her observations.